ຂປລ
The Houaphanh Provincial Health Department, in collaboration with Xam Neua district authorities, officially launched the National Immunisation Days (NID) campaign on 2nd March 2026. The initiative aims to provide vital vaccinations to children from birth up to five years of age.
The launch ceremony, held at the Keo Lak Meuang Park, was presided over by Ms Khamphone Somboune, Vice President of the Xam Neua District Administration Committee. Also in attendance were Dr Amchaleun Sonthavixay, Head of the Houaphanh Provincial Health Department, alongside representatives from international organisations, provincial departments, and local families.
The vaccination campaign focuses on two primary health interventions for children aged 0 to 59 months including oral polio vaccine to eradicate the risk of paralysis and measles-rubella (MR) vaccine to curb recent outbreaks of these highly contagious diseases.
The primary objective is to ensure "universal coverage," reaching every child regardless of whether they live in urban centres or remote, rural highlands.
Addressing Health Challenges
The campaign follows reports from 2025, where laboratories in Japan and the Lao PDR National Centre for Laboratory and Epidemiology confirmed new polio cases within the country. Furthermore, measles outbreaks have been recorded across several provinces, particularly in border regions and hard-to-reach areas where immunisation rates have remained low for several years.
During the ceremony, Ms Khamphone Somboune urged authorities at all levels to actively monitor and support the programme to ensure targets are met. She also called upon the education sector and the media to raise awareness among parents.
"I urge all parents and guardians to bring their children to the designated service points on time. Vaccination is essential to build immunity and protect our children from preventable disabilities and death," Ms Somboune stated.
Nationwide Implementation
Beyond Xam Neua, the vaccination drive commenced simultaneously across all nine districts of Houaphanh province. The vaccination campaign is scheduled to run from 2nd March to 2nd April 2026.
This year's health drive coincides with the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, symbolising a national commitment to public health and the well-being of the next generation.
KPL
